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- Furano Now: Thursday 11th December 2025
Independent snow and weather reporting from the Furano region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 13cm Snowfall at base this season 178cm Posted on Thursday 11th December 2025 This is an archived report. The latest Furano Now report can be found here . Hello Skiers & Boarders, Houston, we are looking good. Just kinda keeps snowing and it's piling up nicely along the roads. Today's snow is actually the light and fwuffy stuff Furano is renowned for. Just a taste of things to come. I am simultaneously happy and feel for the fairly large contingent of foreign-type workers who have arrived in town to work in various winter jobs. There are quite a few Hokkaido first-timers in the mix, and it's fun to imagine their reactions when they finally get to ski the good stuff for the first time. At the same time, after you've had the best there is, where do you go from there? Fortunately, or unfortunately, for them, they've probably locked themselves into a lifetime of annual winter trips to Hokkaido, and nothing else will ever quiiiiiiite measure up in terms of snow quality. No hyperbole here. Statement of fact. I know many a North American, Euro dude, or Aussie who came to Hokkaido "just once" on a "bucket list" trip, and now find themselves booking flights and accommodation a year in advance every single year. Once you've snorted the finest, there's no going back. They buy an extra set of powder skis and leave them here with friends. They get together with 4 mates and buy an old house for dirt cheap and set up camp in the winter with an old cheap 4WD K-van in the driveway. They have a fine collection of neck gaiters--essential gear in the deep to prevent snow going down your neck into your shorts. My friend skis with a snorkel attached to his helmet. On non-powder days, it's just funny. But he uses it on the big days. Then there's the committed sods who cleverly arrange to work remotely and just move here for the season, or even year-round. I've been asked before by people who've yet to visit Hokkaido, "What do YOU consider a good powder day?" I was reluctant to give an honest answer cuz they'd think I was smoking weed. But they pressed, and I relented. For me, anything up to my knees is just practice. I'm just working on different turns, tuning up for...mid-thigh is a "good" day, waist is "awesome", and chest is "epic." I've had epic. It's an addiction. You've been warned. Think snow. --- Ropeway + Lifts C & D 8:30 -- 15:00 *The A2 run is still the only run open all the way to the base. **The infamous Furano Quad has been repaired and will open per normal schedule later this month.** Furano Now 2025-2026 season Data as of Thursday 11th December 2025 Total snowfall at base 178cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 14 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 30cm (6th December) November 2025 snowfall 45cm reported on 5 days December 2025 snowfall 133cm reported on 9 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Furano. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com
- Niseko Now: Thursday 11th December 2025
Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 10cm Snowfall at base this season 101cm We have fresh snow again this morning with the promise of more over the next few days. Might get windy too, though it isn't just now. I am pleased to see that the Annupuri gondola is going to be operating from today, opening up the Utopia and Shirakaba runs at that ski area. A few more runs have also opened at Hirafu and Hanazono, too. Check out the list below. With this ongoing and incoming fresh snowfall, hopefully we will be gradually be seeing more of the mountain opening over the coming days. Yey! ------------------------------------ According to the Niseko United website, Niseko Village has received a magnificent 55cm+55cm+60cm of fresh snowfall over the last 3 days. 170cm! That would be absolutely incredible, if it were true. Obviously, it is not correct. For at least three days now, they have been putting what is presumably the 'snow depth' number (60cm today) in the '24 hours snowfall' field. On the same page, the snow depth at peak is showing as 0cm. This is on the official Niseko United website. We are all human and so mistakes will be made. But day after day? I know I can sometimes go on about this kind of thing, but I think it's important. Please show some care. (And I wonder if 'AI' will pick up on that and delight everyone by spreading it around). I promise not to mention it again. Well, not for a few days at least. ;) ------------------------------------ Niseko Avalanche Report Mountain base at 6am: 0℃, light wind, 15cm new snow from midnight. Moiwa Mikaeri 800m: -3℃, NW0.8m/s, snowing, poor visibility. Hanazono 800m: -6.7℃, SSW2.3m/s. Coastal weather: Benkei cape S3m/s, Kamui cape N5m/s, 1013hPa, 1.4m waves. Strong pre-low-pressure snowfall from midnight. A low-pressure system of 1012 hPa is moving westward from the Sea of Japan, with southwesterly winds and snow intensifying this afternoon. Snow accumulation will increase, and snowdrifts are expected to develop rapidly above 800m elevation. The current low-pressure snowfall is likely to trigger point avalanches on steep course-side cut slopes and cliff bands. Beware. Snow accumulation will increase rapidly before and after the front passes. Avalanche risk will rise sharply from this afternoon through tomorrow. Wind-affected snowdrift slabs, developed intermittently by strong winds exceeding 15m/s, may appear hard and stable. However, the slab structure remains unstable until winds drop below 10 m/s and consolidation begins. Avalanches are likely to occur due to the increased weight of the slab (leeward snowdrifts) regardless of the snow stratigraphy. Do not over-rely on pit checks. Even if the cause is understood after an accident, the dead cannot be brought back. Isobar widths will narrow going forward, with blizzards persisting. There is no safety in this sport. This is a ski resort; follow the rules. Patrols are always concerned for your safety. Tomorrow’s avalanche report is suspended. Have a good day. When driving, apply brakes early to prevent a collision and running off the road. ------------------------------------ Niseko HANAZONO Resort Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): Peak: 13cm Base: 13cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): Peak: 110cm (+8cm change since yesterday) Base: 58cm (+8cm change since yesterday) Planned lift operations: All four lifts Planned open courses: Mango Salad Silver Dream Juicy Fruit Parallel Yotei Sunset Crystal Garden Stairway to Heaven ------------------ Niseko Tokyu Grand Hirafu Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): Peak: 20cm Base: 20cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): Peak: 130cm (+5cm change since yesterday) Base: 50cm (+10cm change since yesterday) Planned lift operations: Ace Gondola Ace Number 3 pair King Gondola King Number 3 six Swinging Monkey Planned open courses: Center Jumbo Shirakaba Rinkan Beginners access ------------------ Niseko Village Ski Resort Planned lift operations: Upper Village Gondola Village Express Community Chair Banzai Chair ------------------ Niseko Annupuri Kokusai Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): Peak: 60cm (+10cm change since yesterday) Base: 40cm (+10cm change since yesterday) Planned lift operations: Annupuri gondola Dream Number 1 quad Jumbo Number 1 quad Planned open courses: Utopia Shirakaba Paradise Junior ------------------ Niseko Moiwa Ski Resort Planned lift operations: Number 1 pair Number 2 pair Niseko Now 2025-2026 season Data as of Thursday 11th December 2025 Total snowfall at base so far 101cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 15 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 21cm (4th December) November 2025 snowfall 29cm reported on 7 days December 2025 snowfall 72cm reported on 8 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com
- Shiga Kogen Now: Wednesday 10th December 2025
Independent snow and weather reporting from the Shiga Kogen region of Nagano New snowfall at base 1cm Snowfall at base this season 82cm Posted on Wednesday 10th December 2025 This is an archived report. The latest Shiga Kogen Now report can be found here . Fine weather when I got back to Shiga Kogen yesterday with some cloud but a lot of nice blue sky. We still have five ski areas part open as we wait for more snow to expand operations. A lot of snow might be coming our from by Friday morning, with clearer skies due on Saturday and then more snow Sunday into Monday. Right now it is largely cloudy but quite bright with hints of blue sky. (Not much more than a dusting at base since the last report; recorded in this report). --------------------- The below information is checked at the time of report using official sources Currently open ski areas in Shiga Kogen (subject to change): Ichinose Family: Number 2 pair lift A Number 2 pair lift B Official snow depth 40cm Kumanoyu: Number 2 pair life A Number 2 pair lift B Official snow depth 40cm Takamagahara Mammoth: Number 2 triple lift Official snow depth 40cm Yakebitaiyama: Number 2 gondola Official snow depth: 50cm Yokoteyama: Number 1 Sky B lift Number 2 Sky lift Number 4 pair lift Official snow depth 40cm Shiga Kogen Now 2025-2026 season Data as of Wednesday 10th December 2025 Total snowfall at base 82cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 12 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 19cm (on 19th November) November 2025 snowfall 43cm reported on 8 days December 2025 snowfall 39cm reported on 4 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Shiga Kogen. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com
- Geto Kogen Now: Wednesday 10th December 2025
Independent snow and weather reporting from the Geto Kogen region of Iwate New snowfall at base 29cm Snowfall at base this season 220cm Posted on Wednesday 10th December 2025 This is an archived report. The latest Geto Kogen Now report can be found here . Hello from a snowy Geto Kogen. We've had almost 30cm of fresh snow since yesterday which is great to be able to report. The ski area reports 36cm higher up. Nice. It is still snowing but not expected to last into the afternoon, but fairly strong wind is expected. More is forecast for Friday and perhaps quite a lot. That bodes well for the weekend. Bring it on! --------------------------- Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): 110cm (top) 60cm (base) Planned lift operations (reported by the ski area): Number 1 gondola Quad lift Number 1 pair lift Courses (reported by the ski area): Most main runs are at least part open Tree run courses are not yet open Geto Kogen Now 2025-2026 season Data as of Wednesday 10th December 2025 Total snowfall at base so far 220cm Number of days snowfall observed 10 days Most snowfall observed on 1 day 77cm (on 5th December) November 2025 snowfall 54cm observed on 5 days December 2025 snowfall 166cm observed on 5 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Geto Kogen. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com
- Hakuba Now: Wednesday 10th December 2025
Independent snow and weather reporting from the Hakuba region of Nagano New snowfall at base 0cm Snowfall at base this season 42cm Posted on Wednesday 10th December 2025 This is an archived report. The latest Hakuba Now report can be found here . Hello from Hakuba. While the four ski areas are open, which is good, we're kind of in that early season 'waiting for snow' holding mode at the moment. And we are forecast some good snowfall across coming days - in particular from late tomorrow/early Friday and through Friday and then again around Sunday/Monday. Hopefully we might be entering a period of consistent and regular snowfall to get things kicking off properly. Something like last year would be fab! For the moment this morning there is a lot of cloud and some blue sky in places. At Happo-one, Usagidaira and Panorama are now open. Other than that, operations appear to be as they have been. A few other ski areas plan to open this coming weekend. No specific news from those just at the moment. Since yesterday Hakuba 47 seems to be having a major problem with its website. Good luck sorting that out. I found the message they posted on social media yesterday quite amusing: "Regarding the start time of each lift, there may be a delay due to verification of bear footprints". It really is time for bed, bears! -------------------------------- Ski area information for Wednesday 10th December 2025 The information below is manually checked with official sources and updated for every report. All information is subject to change. Check before heading out. ------------ ABLE Hakuba Goryu New snowfall (as reported by the ski area): Top: 0cm Official snow depth (as reported by the ski area): Top: 55cm Top: 10cm Planned operations: Gondola Alps Number 1 pair lift Alps Number 3 pair lift Panorama course Grand Prix course Super course Technical course ------------ Hakuba 47 Winter Sports Park New snowfall (reported as 'todays snowfall' by the ski area): Top: 0cm Base: 0cm Official snow depth (as reported by the ski area): Top: 80cm Base: 20cm Planned operations: All of the main runs are available Tree run courses not yet open ------------ Hakuba Happo-one New snowfall (as reported by the ski area): Kurobushi (1680m): 0cm Usagidaira (1400m): 0cm Nakiyama (800m): 0cm Official snow depth (as reported by the ski area): Kurobushi (1680m): 85cm Usagidaira (1400m): 43cm Nakiyama (800m): -cm Planned operations: Gondola Alpen quad Panorama pair lift Kokusai Number 3 pair lift Kurobishi Number 2 quad Kurobishi course Usagidaira course Panorama course ------------ Tsugaike Mountain Resort Official snow depth (as reported by the ski area): Upper: 64cm Base: 30cm Planned operations: Gondola Tsuga Number 2 pair lift Han-no-ki pair lift Limited opening but you can ski from top to base Hakuba Now 2025-2026 season Data as Wednesday 10th December 2025 Total snowfall at base so far 42cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 4 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 20cm (on 5th December) November 2025 snowfall 2cm reported on 1 day December 2025 snowfall 40cm reported on 3 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Hakuba. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com
- Furano Now: Wednesday 10th December 2025
Independent snow and weather reporting from the Furano region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 25cm Snowfall at base this season 165cm Posted on Wednesday 10th December 2025 This is an archived report. The latest Furano Now report can be found here . Good afternoon skiers & boarders, As much as I'd like it to be otherwise, I do have a day job and responsibilities beyond those of keeping you informed of the Furano snow scene. Reality just gets in the way sometimes, and I apologize. Firstly, yes, mucho snow yesterday and overnight. At the Top Secret SnowJapan Big Dump Measurement Center near the base of the Kitanomine Gondola, I measured 25 cm this morning. On the heavy side, not that I care at this point cuz my season hasn't started yet, but it does keep things packing up, so overall I think it's good. You can't really ski off-piste until most of the branches are covered anyway, so all contributions to get us to that point are welcome. Secondly, the huge new Rhythm store is open in Kitanomine, and it's a beaut. Everything is top notch. First floor is gear rentals, and the second floor is snow goodies retail. Importantly, the second floor also features a coffee/adult beverage bar, with a convenient Happy Hour patio overlooking the main drag. I suspect they hope to be the "Pre-Ajito" hangout. The weather report says even more mucho snow from early tomorrow morning thru the early afternoon, and hardly windy, so should be quite pleasant up there. I love skiing when it's snowing hard. Crucially, the temps appear to be cooperating. Nice and cold. Yeah. All of the "Think Snow" appears to be working, so keep up the good work. Think snow. Furano Now 2025-2026 season Data as of Wednesday 10th December 2025 Total snowfall at base 165cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 13 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 30cm (6th December) November 2025 snowfall 45cm reported on 5 days December 2025 snowfall 120cm reported on 8 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Furano. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com
- Niseko Now: Wednesday 10th December 2025
Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 6cm Snowfall at base this season 91cm I have slightly under 6cm of observed fresh snowfall to report to you this morning. Hirafu are claiming 15cm at base. That seems rather high, but perhaps it's worth checking out. As I put this report together (between 8am and 8:30am) it is snowing in places, but it's also quite bright too and there is even some blue sky to see in places behind the fast moving cloud. Visibility generally seems fair to good even in places it is snowing. It feels like it is changing by the minute this morning. More snow is forecast to be incoming over the coming days. Forecasts look quite promising. (As they should, of course, as we approach the middle of December). Operations at all of the ski areas on the mountain remains very limited. Significant snowfall, please! ------------------------------------ Niseko Avalanche Report Mountain base at 6am: -6℃, light wind, 5cm snowfall in 12hrs, 40cm accumulated snow, light snow, good visibility. Moiwa Mikaeri 800m: -8℃, NW2.0m/s. Hanazono 800m: -8.3℃, NNW3.8m/s. Coastal weather: Benkei cape NW11m/s, Kamui cape WNW9m/s, 1020hPa, 1.9m waves. Isobars are widely spaced, and the wind is starting to subside over both sea and mountains. Cornice and snowdrifts are slowly developing on the slopes over 800m elevation. From the data and observations, snow is stabilised, and the overall avalanche risk is low. Due to the limited snowfall, out-of-bounds skiing from ski resorts is expected to be delayed. 10cm of new snow on some off-piste areas in ski resorts can be fun. Beware of the uneven terrain. Do not duck ropes to ski out of bounds. Niseko respects your freedom to ski out of bounds and runs Niseko Rules for your safety. Please respect the rules. Looking forward to tonight’s snow. Have a good day. ------------------------------------ Niseko HANAZONO Resort Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): Peak: 6cm Base: 8cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): Peak: 102cm (+2cm change since yesterday) Base: 50cm (+15cm change since yesterday) Planned lift operations: All four lifts Planned open courses: Mango Salad Silver Dream Juicy Fruit Parallel Yotei Sunset ------------------ Niseko Tokyu Grand Hirafu Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): Peak: 15cm Base: 15cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): Peak: 125cm (+5cm change since yesterday) Base: 40cm (no change since yesterday) Planned lift operations: Ace Gondola Ace Number 3 pair King Gondola King Number 3 six Swinging Monkey Planned open courses: Center Jumbo Beginners access ------------------ Niseko Village Ski Resort Planned lift operations: Upper Village Gondola Village Express Community Chair Banzai Chair ------------------ Niseko Annupuri Kokusai Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): Peak: 50cm (no change since yesterday) Base: 30cm (no change since yesterday) Planned lift operations: Dream Number 1 quad Jumbo Number 1 quad Planned open courses: Paradise Junior ------------------ Niseko Moiwa Ski Resort Planned lift operations: Number 1 pair Number 2 pair Niseko Now 2025-2026 season Data as of Wednesday 10th December 2025 Total snowfall at base so far 91cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 14 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 21cm (4th December) November 2025 snowfall 29cm reported on 7 days December 2025 snowfall 62cm reported on 7 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com
- Zao Now: Wednesday 10th December 2025
Independent snow and weather reporting from the Zao region of Yamagata New snowfall at base 4cm Snowfall at base this season 52cm Posted on Wednesday 10th December 2025 This is an archived report. The latest Zao Now report can be found here . Apologies for my absence... a pre-season trip out of Zao was called for. Anyway, back now and it was snowing earlier on this morning but has eased off now. The ski area remains open with, as far as I can tell, just the Chuo area is open for skiing/boarding. Very limited just yet. As with much of northern Japan, we are expecting snow going into Friday morning and then some from early next week. Hopefully we'll get enough to enable more of the ski-jo to open up. --------------- The information below is manually checked with official sources and updated for every report. Please note that details can change quickly and all information is subject to change. Ski lifts operating (planned): Chuo Number 1 pair (via Zao Chuo Ropeway) Ski runs open (planned): Chuo (part) Official snow depth (reported by ski area): Yokokura area: 10cm Uwanodai area: 20cm Utopia area: 30cm Chuo area: 30cm Paradise area: 20cm Summit area: 15cm Zao Now 2025-2026 season Data as of Wednesday 10th December 2025 Total snowfall at base 52cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 6 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 23cm (on 4th December) November 2025 snowfall 5cm observed on 2 days December 2025 snowfall 47cm observed on 4 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Zao Onsen. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com
- Niseko Now: Monday 24th March 2025
Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 0cm Snowfall at base this season 772cm Posted on Monday 24th March 2025 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here A lovely morning it is, too, and once I post this report I'm going to quickly get out there and hit the slopes. Yey. There is still the potential for fresh snow on weekly forecasts (into Wednesday and then the weekend) so we might not have seen the last of it just yet. So, evening skiing finished last... evening... so it really feels like we are in the last stretch now. Though, that last stretch does stretch into May for one ski area. I had almost forgotten that this season Niseko Tokyu Grand Hirafu will only be open until Monday 31st March. That ski area is usually open until Golden Week in early May. The reason for the earlier close this year is construction work planned on the King Number 3 quad lift. That lift will magically transform into a 6-seater from December 2025. Excite! Here are the planned closing dates for ski areas as they stand: Hirafu: Monday 31st March 2025 Moiwa: Sunday 6th April 2025 Village: Sunday 6th April 2025 Hanazono: Sunday 13th April 2025 Annupuri: Tuesday 6th May 2025 The small Asahigaoka ski area behind Kutchan Station closed for the season on 9th March. Apologies for not mentioning that in my reports. I will be here with you until the last lift closes for the season. All being well, that will be 6th May. ------------------------------------ Niseko Avalanche Report Moiwa Mountain base -2℃, no new snow, frozen. Moiwa 800m: -4.8℃, S1.8m/s, no new snow. Annupuri 1100m: -6.4℃, W4.0m/s. Hirafu Hanazono 1000m: -5.9℃, SSW8.9m/s. Coastal data: Benkei Cape S3m/s, Kamui Cape S9m/s, 1011hPa, wave 0.9m. No snowfall or rain. This information is issued to prevent accidents off piste for ski resort users. Due to frequent accidents in the past, “Niseko Rules” were established many years ago to govern a system that allows skiers to ski in out of bounds areas in an effort to reduce accidents. Although not officially recognized by the government, it approves of the current situation. This report provides information on daily weather data and observations, danger of surface avalanches, when accidents are most likely to occur, as well as explaining other possible dangers such as cornices collapsing, collisions with trees and getting lost in poor visibility. Education to prevent accidents. Accidents can be reduced if everyone heading into the mountains understands the dangers of the day. Peak gates are scheduled to be open today. Please listen to the patrol’s advice and prepare before exiting through the gates. There is no safety in this sport, but it is good for your mind and body. Have a nice day. ------------------------------------ Individual ski area information for Monday 24th March 2025 The below snow depth and snowfall numbers are manually checked each morning from official sources. Niseko HANAZONO Resort Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): Peak: 0cm Base: 0cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): Peak: 300cm (no change since yesterday) Base: 185cm (no change since yesterday) Current operations (scheduled as per official site; subject to change): All 4 lifts are open Planned closing date: Sunday 13th April 2025 (extended from original planned closing of 6th April) ------------------ Niseko Tokyu Grand Hirafu Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): Peak: 0cm Base: 0cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): Peak: 355cm (no change since yesterday) Base: 120cm (no change since yesterday) Current operations (scheduled as per official site; subject to change): 7 lifts operating Ace Number 3 pair lift and Ace Number 4 pair lift are closed Planned closing date: Monday 31st March 2025 ------------------ Niseko Village Ski Resort Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): Peak: 230cm (no change since yesterday) Base: 130cm (no change since yesterday) Current operations (scheduled as per official site; subject to change): 7 lifts operating Morino Chair lift is closed Planned closing date: Sunday 6th April 2025 ------------------ Niseko Annupuri Kokusai Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): Peak: 250cm (-10cm change since yesterday) Base: 120cm (no change since yesterday) Current operations (scheduled as per official site; subject to change): 4 lifts operating Jumbo Number 2 pair lift and Jumbo Number 3 pair lift are closed Planned closing date: Tuesday 6th May 2025 ------------------ Niseko Moiwa Ski Resort Current operations (scheduled as per official site; subject to change): 2 lifts operating Quad lift is closed Planned closing date: Sunday 6th April 2025 ------------------------------------ Night skiing Floodlit 'night' skiing finished for the 2024-2025 season on Sunday 23rd March. Niseko Now 2024-2025 season Data as of Monday 24th March 2025 Total snowfall at base so far 772cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 91 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 24cm (6th February) November 2024 snowfall 38cm reported on 8 days December 2024 snowfall 311cm reported on 28 days January 2025 snowfall 161cm reported on 19 days February 2025 snowfall 196cm reported on 24 days March 2025 snowfall 66cm reported on 12 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com
- Niseko Now: Sunday 23rd March 2025
Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 1cm Snowfall at base this season 772cm Posted on Sunday 23rd March 2025 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Good morning from Niseko. It is an improved picture this morning with a lot of cloud and some patches of blue sky and hints of sun. We did actually get to see some sky yesterday, so that early morning yucky kind of start didn't continue for the day. I'm afraid that wind is an issue once again this morning, though. As of 8:30am, the top lift at Annupuri is on hold. Ski areas are not reporting any new cm of snow this morning - not even Niseko Village! - but I am feeling generous and actually going to add 1cm to the report today to represent the 'dusting plus' that we have actually got. Using a few mm that I had 'in hand' from previous reports there. Roll up roll up, it's the last 'evening skiing' of the season today. Ski area folks who might be reading this: how about some proper 'night skiing' next season? Say, until 9pm or something. Like you used to offer, back in the day... ------------------------------------ Niseko Avalanche Report Moiwa Mountain base -2℃, trace new snow, intermittent gusts. Moiwa 800m: -4.7℃, NNW13.6m/s, strong winds, wind blown cornice development. Mikaeri 750m: -5℃, NW2.1m/s, good visibility. Annupuri 1100m: -7.1℃, WNW6.3m/s, cornice and snowdrift development. Hirafu Hanazono 1000m: -6.3℃, NNE10.7m/s, wind blown snow, cornice and snowdrift development. Coastal data: Benkei Cape N9m/s, Kamui Cape NW8m/s, 1004hPa, wave 1.9m. A typical winter pressure pattern, northwest winds from midnight to dawn caused snowdrift and cornice development. Cornices are breaking easily with little stimulation. Cornice and snowdrift development has been from drifting snow, not new snowfall. Snow on the slopes has been blown by the wind and drifts on the leeward slopes above 800m are breaking easily this morning. This information is issued to prevent accidents among ski resort users. Accidents occur due to carelessness. Accidents can be prevented if everyone is careful. Do not duck ropes to leave the ski area, use the gates. Never enter Strictly Off Limits areas Haruno Taki or Yunosawa. The risk of full-depth avalanches is increasing. To avoid danger, stay out of the bottom of Osawa and Kozan no Sawa. Cracks in the slopes are deep, up to 5m. Be careful not to fall in. Although Niseko allows out of bounds skiing, we are always concerned about accidents. Be careful of cornices and snow bridges suddenly collapsing. Also water in the creeks is rising. All gates are scheduled to open. Please listen to the patrol’s advice and prepare before going through the gates. Have a nice day. ------------------------------------ Individual ski area information for Sunday 23rd March 2025 The below snow depth and snowfall numbers are manually checked each morning from official sources. Niseko HANAZONO Resort Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): Peak: 0cm Base: 0cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): Peak: 300cm Base: 185cm Lifts: The gondola is scheduled to be open until 7:00pm ------------------ Niseko Tokyu Grand Hirafu Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): Peak: 0cm Base: 0cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): Peak: 355cm Base: 120cm Lifts: The Ace Gondola, Ace Family quad, King Gondola and King Holiday pair lifts are scheduled to be open until 7:00pm ------------------ Niseko Village Ski Resort Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): Peak: 230cm (no change since yesterday) Base: 130cm (no change since yesterday) Lifts: The Upper Village Gondola, Village Express and Banzai Chair lifts are scheduled to be open until 7:00pm ------------------ Niseko Annupuri Kokusai Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): Peak: 260cm (no change since yesterday) Base: 120cm (-10cm change since yesterday) Lifts: The Jumbo Number 1 quad lift is scheduled to be open until 7:30pm ------------------------------------ Night skiing Floodlit night skiing is planned daily until... today! Niseko Now 2024-2025 season Data as of Sunday 23rd March 2025 Total snowfall at base so far 772cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 91 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 24cm (6th February) November 2024 snowfall 38cm reported on 8 days December 2024 snowfall 311cm reported on 28 days January 2025 snowfall 161cm reported on 19 days February 2025 snowfall 196cm reported on 24 days March 2025 snowfall 66cm reported on 12 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com
- Niseko Now: Thursday 20th March 2025
Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 8cm Snowfall at base this season 771cm Posted on Thursday 20th March 2025 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here Good morning from Niseko. And, golly, what a lovely surprise again! We have another welcome layer of fresh snow. Looks like varying amounts around the mountain (as is often the case, of course). Wind is less welcome and unfortunately due to that the top lifts are on hold. Otherwise, all lifts are go. We might still get some more modest amounts of snow across the next few days, so the fresh isn't quite done yet. There are just four more days of 'evening skiing' here in Niseko. Lasuto chansu! ------------------------------------ Individual ski area information for Thursday 20th March 2025 The below snow depth and snowfall numbers are manually checked each morning from official sources. Niseko HANAZONO Resort Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): Peak: 8cm Base: 2cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): Peak: 320cm (+10cm change since yesterday) Base: 215cm (no change since yesterday) Lifts: The gondola is scheduled to be open until 7:00pm ------------------ Niseko Tokyu Grand Hirafu Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): Peak: 10cm Base: 10cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): Peak: 375cm (+10cm change since yesterday) Base: 125cm (no change since yesterday) Lifts: The Ace Gondola, Ace Family quad, King Gondola and King Holiday pair lifts are scheduled to be open until 7:00pm ------------------ Niseko Village Ski Resort Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): Peak: 230cm (+10cm change since yesterday) Base: 140cm (+5cm change since yesterday) Lifts: The Upper Village Gondola, Village Express and Banzai Chair lifts are scheduled to be open until 7:00pm ------------------ Niseko Annupuri Kokusai Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): Peak: 260cm (no change since yesterday) Base: 130cm (no change since yesterday) Lifts: The Jumbo Number 1 quad lift is scheduled to be open until 7:30pm ------------------------------------ Night skiing Floodlit night skiing is planned daily until Sunday 23rd March 2025 Niseko Now 2024-2025 season Data as of Thursday 20th March 2025 Total snowfall at base so far 771cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 90 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 24cm (6th February) November 2024 snowfall 38cm reported on 8 days December 2024 snowfall 311cm reported on 28 days January 2025 snowfall 161cm reported on 19 days February 2025 snowfall 196cm reported on 24 days March 2025 snowfall 65cm reported on 11 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com
- Niseko Now: Tuesday 18th March 2025
Independent snow and weather reporting from the Niseko region of Hokkaido New snowfall at base 6cm Snowfall at base this season 763cm Posted on Tuesday 18th March 2025 This is an archived report. The latest Niseko Now report can be found here We seem to be on a bit of a roll at the moment! This morning I have another 6cm to report and, once again, Hirafu reporting up to 20cm at higher elevations. It has been colder, too, so snow quality is jolly nice and we have been able to enjoy some blue sky and sunshine too this morning. All lifts running. Yey! ------------------------------------ Individual ski area information for Tuesday 18th March 2025 The below snow depth and snowfall numbers are manually checked each morning from official sources. Niseko HANAZONO Resort Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): Peak: 8cm Base: 10cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): Peak: 320cm (no change since yesterday) Base: 225cm (+5cm change since yesterday) Lifts: The gondola is scheduled to be open until 7:00pm ------------------ Niseko Tokyu Grand Hirafu Official 24 hours snowfall (reported by the ski area): Peak: 20cm Base: 10cm Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): Peak: 370cm (+10cm change since yesterday) Base: 130cm (-5cm change since yesterday) Lifts: The Ace Gondola, Ace Family quad, King Gondola and King Holiday pair lifts are scheduled to be open until 7:00pm ------------------ Niseko Village Ski Resort Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): Peak: 220cm (no change since yesterday) Base: 140cm (no change since yesterday) Lifts: The Upper Village Gondola, Village Express and Banzai Chair lifts are scheduled to be open until 7:00pm ------------------ Niseko Annupuri Kokusai Official snow depth (reported by the ski area): Peak: 260cm (no change since yesterday) Base: 120cm (no change since yesterday) Lifts: The Jumbo Number 1 quad lift is scheduled to be open until 7:30pm ------------------------------------ Night skiing Floodlit night skiing is planned daily until Sunday 23rd March 2025 Niseko Now 2024-2025 season Data as of Tuesday 18th March 2025 Total snowfall at base so far 763cm Number of days snowfall observed at base 89 days Most snowfall observed in 1 day 24cm (6th February) November 2024 snowfall 38cm reported on 8 days December 2024 snowfall 311cm reported on 28 days January 2025 snowfall 161cm reported on 19 days February 2025 snowfall 196cm reported on 24 days March 2025 snowfall 57cm reported on 10 days Previous report Next report All snowfall data presented on this page is the snowfall measured and observed at base/town level by our reporter based in Kutchan/Niseko. The 'new snowfall' number represents the amount of snow measured since the previous report. All opinions are those of the individual reporters. Information regarding ski area operations is manually checked every morning and is believed to be correct at the time of the report. SnowJapan is an entirely independent operation. Our daily reports are not posted on behalf of ski areas or any other business or organisation. Since first going online in 1999, the integrity of this website has always been our top priority, and it is something we are not prepared to compromise. All content is carefully created and written by humans who share a passion for the subject and what SnowJapan stands for. About SnowJapan.com About the daily reporting on SnowJapan.com